Scooter Board Activities on Neck Control and Dysphagia in Children With Cerebral Palsy

Effects of Scooter Board Activities on Neck Control and Dysphagia in Children With Cerebral Palsy

This study is a randomized control trial exploring the therapeutic effects of scooter board activities on neck control and dysphagia in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Part of a Master of Science in Physical Therapy program, the research focuses on innovative uses of scooter boards-flat, wheeled platforms that allow children to propel themselves while lying or sitting. This activity is hypothesized to improve neck stability and swallowing functions, which are crucial for posture, movement, and reducing health risks such as malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.

The trial will employ validated tools like the Eating and Drinking Ability Classification System (EDACS), Schedule for Oral Motor Assessment (SOMA), and Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) to assess changes in participants. Conducted over six months at facilities including Rehab Care, Rich Care, and Royal College Hospital, it will involve 22 children, aged 6-10, diagnosed with spastic CP and exhibiting symptoms of dysphagia.

The outcomes of this research could revolutionize therapeutic practices by providing a playful, engaging approach to therapy that enhances both motor and social skills.

This randomized control trial investigates the effects of scooter board activities on neck control and dysphagia in children with cerebral palsy (CP), focusing on a group of children aged 6 to 10 years diagnosed with spastic CP. The core hypothesis is that scooter board activities, which involve using a flat, wheeled platform where children can propel themselves using their limbs, can improve neck stability and swallowing functions-critical areas that affect posture, movement, and health risks such as malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.

The study is structured as a controlled experiment with two groups: one receiving the innovative scooter board treatment and the other undergoing traditional physical therapy as a control. The effectiveness of these interventions will be measured using three validated assessment tools:

Eating and Drinking Ability Classification System (EDACS) - This tool classifies the eating and drinking abilities of individuals with CP, focusing on the safety, efficiency, and level of assistance required.

Schedule for Oral Motor Assessment (SOMA) - This assesses oral motor function, evaluating the ability to use lips, tongue, and jaw, which are crucial for eating and communication.

Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) - Used to observe changes in gross motor function, it helps quantify improvements in motor skills that may relate directly to the therapies administered.

The research will take place over six months, following the approval from an advanced research committee and institutional review board. Data will be collected from multiple locations, including Rehab Care, Rich Care, and Royal College Hospital. A total of 22 children will be randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the control group.

This trial aims to not only validate the effectiveness of scooter board activities in improving neck control and reducing dysphagia symptoms but also to enhance the quality of life for children with CP by integrating play into therapeutic practices. The potential for significant findings could lead to innovative, engaging therapy options that align with children's natural tendencies towards play, thereby enhancing therapy adherence and effectiveness.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age: Participants must be between 6 to 10 years old.
• Diagnosis: Must be diagnosed with spastic cerebral palsy.
• Symptoms of Dysphagia: Must exhibit symptoms of dysphagia, as confirmed by clinical assessment.
• Ability to Follow Instructions: Must be able to follow simple instructions to participate in the therapeutic activities effectively.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe Cognitive or Sensory Impairments: Children with severe cognitive or sensory impairments that prevent participation in the intervention are excluded. This is to ensure that participants can engage effectively in the therapy sessions and follow the instructions required for the scooter board activities and assessments.
• Previous Neck Muscle Strengthening Interventions: Children who have previously undergone specific interventions aimed at strengthening neck muscles are excluded to maintain a baseline uniformity among participants. This criterion helps in assessing the pure effect of the scooter board activities without interference from prior similar treatments.